WorkSafe has commenced a proactive inspection program to ensure that mobile cranes are being operated and maintained safely and to promote industry compliance.
Inspection and maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations is critical for the safe operation of all cranes, including registered mobile cranes. However, previous high risk plant audits have found major inspection requirements for mobile cranes have not been met.
A major inspection must be carried out by a competent person, and requires:
- an examination of all critical components of the crane, if necessary by stripping down the crane and removing paint, grease and corrosion to allow a thorough examination of each critical component, and
- a check of the effective and safe operation of the crane.
WorkSafe is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all workers in Western Australia and encourages all crane businesses, crane operators and other duty holders to cooperate with inspectors during inspections, and take an active role in promoting compliance and safety in the mobile crane industry.
During the program, WorkSafe inspectors will:
- conduct plant audits on registered mobile cranes, with a focus on major inspections
- provide information to crane businesses, crane operators and other stakeholders on the safe operation of mobile cranes and complying with WHS laws
- work with industry groups to promote compliance and safety awareness.
While the project focuses on providing information and assistance, enforcement action will be taken if breaches of the WHS laws are identified.
This safety initiative will continue until the end of June 2023, and will audit cranes in both metropolitan and regional areas.
Further information